Vast, diverse, deeply spiritual and utterly unforgettable, India is unlike anywhere else on earth – a melting pot of ethnicities and religions, a treasure trove of history and culture, and a curious mixture of chaos and serenity. Stretching across more than three million square kilometres, it encompasses a staggering array of landscapes, vistas and environs, and offers unparalleled travel experiences – from the beautiful beaches of Goa, to the compelling craziness of Kolkata, the sacred Ganges river banks of Varanasi, the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas in Kashmir and the ancient, exquisitely crafted temples dotted across the entire country. Not to mention the vibrant, friendly people, and the incredible cuisine.
Located along the eastern bank of the Hooghly River in the lower Ganges Delta, Kolkata is the capital of the Indian state of West Bengal. This 350-year-old metropolis is the heart and soul of eastern India, and is known for its crumbling colonial architecture, elegant gardens, countless temples and bustling bazaars. Celebrated as the birthplace of the early 20th-century Bengal Renaissance, Kolkata is a major centre for drama, art, film, theatre, literature, spirituality and music. Visitors can roam the streets and soak up the atmosphere of faded grandeur, or take a ride in a rickshaw to one of the many Indian restaurants serving mouth-watering Bengali cuisine. Must-see highlights include the Victoria Memorial, with its east-meets-west architecture; the Indian Museum, with its range of rare artefacts; and the Kali Temple, an important pilgrimage centre for Hindus.
Tucked away in the north-eastern corner of India, Darjeeling is best known for its rolling tea plantations and ‘Toy Train’ which meanders along the precipitous mountain routes of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. A picturesque hill station, Darjeeling offers access to a number of Buddhist monasteries, tea estates, railway journeys and is a great base for trekking in the Himalayas. Impressive jagged peaks of the snow capped Himalayas can be seen from town with Tiger Hill offering astounding views at first light.
Set in the foothills of the Eastern Himalayas, in the northeastern state of Sikkim, the little town of Pelling is famous for its magnificent mountain views of the snow-capped Kanchenjunga massif, the third highest peak in the world. This enchanting hill station is considered the ‘Jewel of the Himalayan Kingdom’ with its diverse range of joyous attractions. Memorable excursions include visiting the 17th-century Buddhist Sanga Choling Monastery, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas; exploring the ancient Rabdentse Palace, overlooking the valley; discovering the cascading Kanchenjungha Falls; and browsing local handicrafts made from locally sourced wood, wool and bamboo. Jump on a half or full day tour to soak up the spectacularly scenic area. For adventure seekers and nature lovers alike, activities such as whitewater rafting, mountain biking, kayaking, trekking and bird watching are in abundance.
The capital of the northeastern Indian state of Sikkim, Gantok is an enticing hilltop city bordered by rivers on either side. Its pleasant sub-tropical climate and superb views of the world’s third-highest mountain (and India’s highest) – Mt. Kangchenjunga – make it a popular tourist destination. Its primary attractions include two key Tibetan Buddhist monasteries – the Rumtek Monastery and the Enchey Monastery – as well as Tashi View Point, which offers spectacular views of the Himalayas, particularly in the light of the setting or rising sun. The best time to visit is after monsoon season, from October to May.
Kalimpong is a lively hill station situated on the northern edge of West Bengal in East India, about 53 km from the hill station of Darjeeling. The municipality sits on a ridge overlooking the Teesta River and boasts some breathtaking Himalayan views and a wonderfully temperate climate. The town is also known for its tranquil Buddhist monasteries, colonial architecture, and its impressive flower markets. Must-see sights include The Kalimpong Science Centre and Zang Dhok Palri Phodang, a Buddhist monastery holding a number of rare Tibetan Buddhist scriptures. Don’t miss Durpin Dara, the highest point in Kalimpong, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area and the mighty Teesta.
As previously described
As previously described
